Friedrich Dürrenmatt

Profession: Playwright and Novelist

Nationality:

Biography: Friedrich Dürrenmatt was a Swiss playwright and novelist known for his dramatic works which blend philosophical depth with biting satire. Dürrenmatt's most famous plays include The Visit (1956) and The Physicists (1962). He was also acclaimed for his crime novels The Judge and His Hangman (1950) and Suspicion (1951).

Dürrenmatt began his studies in 1941 at the University of Zürich, focusing on philosophy, German philology, and literature, before transferring to the University of Bern. In 1943, he decided to dedicate himself to writing and dropped out of university.

His personal life was marked by his marriage to actress Lotti Geissler in 1946 and following her death, his remarriage to Charlotte Kerr, another actress, in 1984. Dürrenmatt was also a painter, with several exhibitions of his work being held.

He was a part of the Gruppe Olten, writing plays such as Romulus the Great (1950). His writing incorporated dark humor, and he addressed heavy themes such as justice, guilt, and the nature of evil.

Dürrenmatt's writing reflected on World War II and was heavily influenced by Bertolt Brecht's epic theatre. Politically engaged, Dürrenmatt was also known for his speeches and essays, including "Switzerland—A Prison" (1990).

His influence extended internationally with travels to the US, Israel, and Poland, and his works have been adapted into various languages and forms, including films like It Happened in Broad Daylight (1958).

Born: January 5, 1921
Birthplace: Konolfingen, Switzerland

Generation: Greatest Generation
Chinese Zodiac: Monkey
Star Sign: Capricorn

Died: December 14, 1990 (aged 69)